Dear friend of Richmond: :

My name is Jovanka Beckles and I am running for Richmond City Council. I love this City of Richmond where I live and work. I see all its potential. I see great need for healthy change here in our city. I realize how much positive progressive change it needs to become the city of our dreams. I know it is possible to build this together. We must move forward to address our current, as well as our future needs.

The election of President Barack Obama signaled that the country was ready for change. We need change at our local levels as well. It is ultimately up to each and every one of us, in every neighborhood to participate in creating the local changes that we want to see.

We have, in Richmond’s history, very proud moments of great achievements that have benefited all of our residents. When we were able to come together from many perspectives and backgrounds and support our common interests and aspirations we have excelled. We can learn a lot from that history.  See and download  “Our History Built Richmond”  and  “One Richmond.”  

We continue to change the image of Richmond to reflect what we know to be true- that Richmond is a city of many distinct communities that reflect the diversity of culture, interests, talents and possibilities. We can be proud of Richmond’s past history event as we continue to make history.

We find ourselves today faced with the great opportunity of re-defining the city where we live. Practicing forward thinking, we have put Richmond on the map as a city willing to make a way for a green economy that supports rather than harms the environment. In the coming years we can build a city-home with enough new jobs for all, by capitalizing on the booming Green jobs sector. We must create community where violence and crime is up-rooted, through a committed and unified effort by community members to Get Involved!. We deserve clean air to breath, great after school programs and libraries to learn, with parks and gardens and community places to enjoy and share. We must implement policies that dramatically and positively improve the quality of life for Richmond residents.

I feel even more strongly that it is particularly true for young people. I have had many sad opportunities to witness the despair of our youth. The worse was when I was the victim of a home invasion at gunpoint. As terrifying as that was for me, it was clear to me that those young, desperate men were equally terrified. They were not frightened of me: they were afraid of not having any obvious reason to hope for a good future with equal opportunities. We must address the root causes of this despair. We must show our children they are valued by providing all with a quality education, as well as positive actions and role models. The young men and women with whom I work every day want a future that is prosperous and safe. They are the ones who remind me that positive progressive change is desperately needed and that, fortunately, it is in the air.

 I bring many talents to the Council. These include: my experience in dealing with the root causes of violence and crime, my integrity, my Masters degree in Business Administration, a no-nonsense business approach, my solid community values, a fresh vision and energy, along with my dedication to Richmond and my faith in its residents.

I ask for your help and support. Together we can build that city that is a true home for all of us.

Positive Progressive Change is needed and it is in the air.